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AWARD FOR DEBBIE
(article first published : 2004-01-25)

Debbie Davidson, managing owner of The Barnyard Theatre at Gateway, was recently acknowledged for the role she has played in the venue’s success when she was awarded the Umhlanga Business Personality of the Year award.

The award was made by the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Debbie was nominated for the award by Mike Rodel, General Manager of Gateway Theatre of Shopping, due to the positive impact that The Barnyard Theatre has had on the centre and the success it has enjoyed.

“The award was made to Debbie for the huge impact that The Barnyard Theatre at Gateway has had on Umhlanga, and the courage that it took to start up a theatre of this magnitude in Durban in an industry which is historically struggling. They have grown into a very successful business that is supported by both business and the community, provides jobs - especially for artists, and has a marketing and public relations programme of the highest order,” said Ken Forbes (Director, Industrial and Commercial Moreland Development) commenting on the judging panel’s decision.

Debbie’s award is another accolade for The Barnyard Theatre at Gateway, following the venue being awarded a Marketing Excellence Recognition Award from the Institute of Marketing Management (IMM) in KwaZulu-Natal in October 2001, only 11 months after opening.

“I am deeply honoured to have been the recipient of this prestigious award. The success of The Barnyard Theatre has been enormous, and this would not have been possible without the ongoing support of the people of KwaZulu-Natal,” said Debbie Davidson.

In addition to The Barnyard Theatre at Gateway, Debbie also has business interests in Teremok Lodge (also with Barnyard business partner Louis Moller) – a newly opened exclusive bed and breakfast in Umhlanga; The Barnyard Theatre Events company, and Catalyst – a public relations and events company which she runs with her daughters.